Virginia Hospital Center -Emergency Medical Associates

The new security that VHC has put in place is overkill. This is very patient unfriendly. I went in for a procedure on 2/29/2024 and you feel like in a third world country under a war zone. I got there early and went up to the cafeteria. When I went downstairs to pre op check in, I forgot to put my guest id on, and went through harassment with the guards. This hospital is located in a very upscale area, not in some gang infested sketchy area. The old Arlington hospital used to be very patient friendly, but since being taken over by VHC has went downhill. I hope the management f will read this post and reevaluate this, for the better of all patrons and visitors.

My doctor and her staff are great. My only complaint is that the McLean office cannot be reached directly by telephone. Calls go through the main VHC switchboard, you have to leave a message and wait for a call back. It's time-consuming and irritating to just make an appointment. Since we live nearby, we sometimes get in the car and drive to the office, go in and make an appointment in person. We should not have to do that! Calls to satellite offices should go directly to those offices. INOVA doesn't inconvenience patients this way. Why does VHC?

On a high note, reception staff are kind and helpful. Doctors take time and listen. Appreciate them. On another side, seems they order urine and blood work for the company to expand profits as the markup to actual cost is astronomical. Also, their processes need fixing. Three notices my appointment was at 10:00 and to arrive 15 minutes early. After waiting for 20 minutes I inquired and was told my appointment was at 10:15. Wasn't seen until 10:45. Said they just tell you that to ensure you are on time. Same thing happened at another location. Made an online appointment. Arrived prior as instructed, then told it was 15 minutes later than I reserved. Don't assume... read full review